Work Based Learning Internship Program
A high-quality work-based learning experience is a school-coordinated experience within the workforce that includes sustained engagement with industry professionals in high-demand fields in which students apply coursework learning to a real-world setting while at the same time building critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creative thinking, and citizenship skills (Virginia’s 5 Cs). Students practice their technical skills and durable skills on a sustained basis, and these experiences accelerate learning toward the goal of earning a national certificate of completion, an industry recognized credential, and/or attain postsecondary credit; and receive feedback and guidance through mentoring and supervision from industry professionals. Six WBL experiences have been identified as meeting the new definition for a High-Quality Work-Based Learning experience. These experiences include clinical experiences, entrepreneurship, internship, registered apprenticeship, school-based enterprise, and select immersion supervised agricultural experiences.
Graduation Requirements
High-Quality Work-Based Learning remains a graduation requirement in Virginia. Per § 22.1-253.13:4 of the Code of Virginia, students are required to: (i) complete an Advanced Placement, honors, International Baccalaureate, or dual enrollment course; or (ii) complete a high-quality work-based learning experience, as defined by the Board; or (iii) earn a career and technical education credential that has been approved by the Board.
HCPS WBL Requirements
Students must submit an application. They are available on the Henry County Public School’s website. Beginning in the spring semester of their sophomore year, students may apply to participate in the Work Based Learning Internship Program to complete as either a junior or senior. The student must have a CTE sequence or be on track to being a CTE completer. Students registered for “Work Based Learning” must have a complete schedule until job placement has been secured. Once an internship is secured, students’ schedules will be altered to accommodate participation in the Work Based Learning Internship Program. Program is double blocked each day for the semester. Students must have their own transportation for internships.